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A Stable Phantom Material for Optical and Acoustic Imaging
Published on: June 16, 2023
Acoustic characterization of shell and size-engineered submicron contrast agents using attenuation measurements
Mahshid Yaali1, Agata A Exner2, Michael C Kolios1
1Toronto Metropolitan University, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science and Technology (iBEST), a partnership between St. Michaels Hospital and Toronto Metropolitan University, 209 Victoria St, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
This study characterizes submicron nanobubbles (NBs) using ultrasound, revealing shell properties significantly impact their acoustic behavior. Findings offer insights into nanobubble dynamics for advanced ultrasound imaging and therapies.
Area of Science:
- Acoustics
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Nanobubbles (NBs) are promising ultrasound contrast agents, but their acoustic properties require further investigation.
- Prior research primarily focused on microbubbles, leaving nanobubble characterization less explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the viscoelastic properties of phospholipid-coated submicron nanobubbles.
- To understand how shell composition and size influence nanobubble acoustic response.
Main Methods:
- Synthesized phospholipid-coated submicron nanobubbles (650-720 nm).
- Utilized ultrasound bulk attenuation measurements to assess viscoelastic properties.
- Examined three distinct NB formulations with varying shell compositions.
Main Results:
- Shell properties critically determine nanobubble resonance frequencies.
- Observed strong nonlinear behavior at higher acoustic pressures (up to 280 kPa).
- Shell stiffness and friction are size-dependent when compared to microbubbles.
Conclusions:
- Nanobubble shell properties are crucial for their acoustic performance.
- Size-dependent shell mechanics in nanobubbles differ from microbubbles.
- Findings advance understanding of nanobubble dynamics for ultrasound applications.
